Oyebanji Hails Historic Landslide Victory, Promises Greater Prosperity for Ekiti People

By Pan Afric Reporters

Ekiti State Governor-elect, Biodun Oyebanji, has described his overwhelming victory in the state’s governorship election as a historic mandate that signals a new era of unity, peace, and development in the state.

Addressing journalists at Jibowu Hall, Govt. House, Ado-Ekiti after being declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Oyebanji said the outcome of the election was unprecedented in Nigeria’s electoral history, noting that his party secured victory across all wards and local government areas in the state.

According to the governor-elect, he had already reached out to his major opponents, including the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Wole Oluyede, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ambassador Dare Bejide, to foster post-election unity.

“Today, as you are aware, I called to congratulate them after the election. Myself and the chairman of the campaign council will also visit these two illustrious sons of our state,” he said.

Oyebanji noted that the election results reflected the confidence reposed in him by the people of Ekiti State, describing the support as “humbling” and a challenge to deliver more dividends of democracy.

The governor-elect said the people had spoken “not in muffled voices, but in a thunderous way,” adding that his administration would respond by accelerating the implementation of its Shared Prosperity Agenda.

“We have heard your voice clearly and accepted the challenge which this unity mandate has thrown upon us. Your level of confidence in us is truly humbling, and we do not take it for granted,” he stated.

Highlighting the significance of the election, Oyebanji said the exercise marked a departure from the violence and acrimony that had characterized previous political contests in the state.

“Unlike previous electoral contests, which were marked with disturbing violence and acrimony, this election has gone by without a single violent incident. It is the dawn of a new era where consensus-building, peace, and harmony have become the trading currency of our political engagement,” he said.

The governor-elect pledged to intensify efforts toward economic growth and social development, promising to work harder to eradicate poverty and inequality.

“With this renewed mandate, I can only assure you that the best has just begun. We will dedicate ourselves more strongly to implementing our Shared Prosperity Agenda and speed up various projects and programmes that are ongoing. We will work harder and smarter to serve you better,” Oyebanji assured.

He expressed gratitude to party leaders, campaign officials, support groups, volunteers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour unions, artisans, market leaders, and persons living with disabilities for their support throughout the campaign.

Oyebanji also commended security agencies, INEC officials, election observers, and other stakeholders for ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.

Special appreciation was extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he credited for supporting democratic reforms and creating an improved electoral environment through amendments to the Electoral Act.

“This victory is a validation of his administration and a vote of confidence in him by the people. The seamless outcome of this election is a direct improvement in the electoral climate and legal framework,” he said.

The governor-elect further thanked members of the National Assembly, the Progressive Governors’ Forum led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, his deputy, Chief Christianah Afuye, members of the State Executive Council, political appointees, and party faithful for their contributions to the victory.

In an emotional conclusion, Oyebanji paid tribute to his wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, his children, and family members for their unwavering support throughout the campaign.

“Finally, I would like to express my profound gratitude and appreciation to my darling wife, my children, and my family for their support and understanding. May God bless Ekiti State and further the progress of Nigeria,” he said.

The governor-elect’s victory has been widely celebrated by supporters across the state, with many describing the outcome as a strong endorsement of his leadership and development agenda for Ekiti State.